One of the most important links in the offshore wind supply chain happens to be located in southeastern Connecticut and serves as an ideal example of why Connecticut, and this region in particular, is a natural hub for the industry.

For 25 years, Survival Systems USA of Groton has been quietly training members of the military to survive an accident at sea. With offshore wind establishing a presence in the US over recent years, leaders of Survival Systems recognized an opportunity to expand its services to workers in this new American industry.

Now, this woman-owned business, led by Connecticut Wind Collaborative Board member Maria Hanna, is the only one of its kind in New England offering courses approved by the Global Wind Organization,  a non-profit organization founded by leading turbine manufacturers and owners/operators, with the goal of creating a safer, more productive workplace. Survival Systems also provides Helicopter Underwater Escape Training for offshore wind workers.

Executive Director Kristin Urbach and Board Chair Paul Lavoie were invited to speak in June during a ceremony celebrating Survival Systems’ 25^th year and the opening of a new building to house a 33-foot training tower at its Groton headquarters.

Paul presented a citation from the Governor and pointed out the opportunity that offshore wind provides for Connecticut to “stand up a new industry.”

Kristin noted that Survival Systems adds significant prestige to Connecticut as the only facility in the Northeast offering this kind of training, adding that the company’s recent expansion is a great example of new economic opportunity generated by offshore wind. Kristin also highlighted Maria’s role in an industry dominated by men and made sure the crowd knew that this woman-owned business boasts a 90% worker retention rate.

U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal and Congressman Joe Courtney also spoke. Sen. Blumenthal gave special recognition to the Collaborative for strengthening Connecticut’s role in the offshore wind industry.

Since 2020, Survival Systems has trained more than 1,500 workers who must meet standards set by the Global Wind Organization for businesses in offshore wind energy development, and more than 150,000 people in water survival. The company provides “underwater egress training” that requires trainees to “escape” from a compartment that simulates a helicopter, plane, or car and is “dunked” into a 13-foot deep water tank at the facility.